The past few weeks have been costly for USA Basketball, which watched on as Kevin Love and Blake Griffin backed out of the FIBA Basketball World Cup for mysterious reasons.

While it was later revealed that Griffin's decision was tied to a back injury, the assumption from the jump was that the Timberwolves told Love to back out because of a possible to the Cleveland Cavaliers or elsewhere. Sports Illsutrated's Chris Mannix confirmed that on SI Now, stating, "I know Minnesota did tell Kevin, “You know what? It’s probably best you not play for this team.” And Kevin wholeheartedly agreed with that sentiment."

Kevin Love (AP Photo)

Love stated when he pulled out that the uncertainty surrounding his standing with the Timberwolves led to his decision to back out. With this new wrinkle, it makes sense that Love would opt to stay home and wait for a trade to happen.

Even though he is not in a good place with Minnesota, the fact remains that they pay his salary. Furthermore, the Wolves would not be able to trade Love if he suffers an injury while playing with Team USA.

It hurts USA Basketball to be without Love, who pledged to play for the team well in advance, but it is the smart move to make at this point. It is obvious that Love wants out and Minnesota is trying to give that to him.